Biofuels in Perspective

126 Biofuels
The indicated early state of plant oil market penetration has the following characteristics:
� no industrial quality standard for plant oil technology,
� no cooperation of vehicle manufacturers, e.g. with respect to warranty,
� incomplete coverage with refuelling stations, especially for private users.
This is why the current customer profile is still that of an ‘Early Adopter’, with some
pioneering spirit and some good understanding of the plant oil particulars. In order to
enjoy the benefits of plant oil technology and fuel, such customers should have some
knowledge concerning:
� engine suitability for plant oil conversion,
� choice of conversion technology and approach,
� operations and maintenance aspects.
7.6.1 Engine Suitability for Plant Oil Conversion
Plant oil technology is applied to diesel engines. Most vehicles with diesel engines regularly
drive longer distances (so reach a good working temperature) and are fundamentally well
suited for running on plant oil. However, to judge the suitability of a particular vehicle,
and to avoid any disappointments in converting to plant oil, the following points should be
considered:
� Technical suitability: Any vehicles fitted with a distributor-injection-pump made by CAV,
Lucas, Stanadyne, RotoDiesel or Delphi are not suited for plant oil. Apart from these
makes, all other injection systems are suitable, e.g. Common Rail-Systems from Delphi
or Lucas.
� Condition of vehicle: The engine, injection system and electrical system of the vehicle
must be in good condition. If that is not the case, for example, if the vehicle was previously
run on (chemically aggressive) Biodiesel, the proper operation of a conversion cannot
be guaranteed. In cases of doubt, the decompression and injection pressure should be
checked.
� Journey profiles: Vehicles which do not regularly reach a good working temperature,
e.g. as on longer journeys, should not be converted. On journeys of less than about
10 kilometres, the motor will not reach optimum thermal conditions. Besides reduced
savings, there may also be a sharp increase in possible defects, such as mixing of plant
oil in the motor oil, or wear and tear.
� Savings: The more fuel one uses, the greater the cost savings and environmental benefits
of converting to plant oil.
� Filling facilities: The more often one can refill at home, the less one has to visit filling
stations and fill up with diesel fuel (though diesel fuel can still be used).
� Personal attitude: A technically minded and inquisitive attitude towards the conversion
will make it seem more straightforward.
The technology supplier of your choice will be able to inform you about the feasibility
of converting specific engines to operate on plant oil. ELSBETT, for instance, is currently
supplying conversion kits for over 2.400 vehicle types, including cars, trucks, and